May 2015

May 28, 2015

Reliever Kyle McKenzie has been a solid part of a solid Charlotte Stone Crabs club (32-14) whose 2.12 ERA leads all of professional baseball. The team is firing on all cylinders, offensively strong, with excellent pitching by the rotation and bullpen. McKenzie has come through in 12 innings of work, since reporting at the end of April. In nine opportunities he's allowed just 4 walks and struck out 8, allowing just 2 earned runs, good for a 1.50 ERA/0.92 WHIP.

He spoke last night after the Stone Crabs won their 32nd game behind starter Jacob Faria's 7 inning gem and a 3-hit performance from SS Willy Adames.

"We've definitely been in a good groove all season, the one thing I've noticed with this team is every guy shows up to the yard with some jump in their step, even during BP there's a ton of energy and it's contagious. We're a very competitive bunch and guys want to get to better. That competitiveness breeds confidence. I know there's this stigma in the minors that there's no real team concept, but that's definitely there with us. We have a lot of guys on this team that hate to lose."

On Keys to His Success this Season: I don't think its the pitches themselves that have been working for me but rather the locations. I've been working hard on pitching inside and I think that's been a huge part of it. This is the first year I've really gone inside on guys regularly and it's led to a lot of success. Not only being able to jam guys but I think pitching inside is huge because it opens up that outer half of the plate. Hitters start worrying about that 4-seam in on their hands and that's when you can attack that outside corner. It's all about making them uncomfortable

Putting Him on the Spot... I don't think there's been a standout [on team], just because everyone's been so damn good. There's a ton of talent on this team and so many guys have been playing so well lately it's hard to pick a standout!

Last Words... We expect to win every night and we take pride in it.

FSL Notes: The Daytona Tortugas have the second best record in the league, going 28-18. They've surrendered just 10 home runs, good for 2nd lowest in the league. They're also 2nd in strikeouts with 348. Offensively they lead the league in home runs with 28.Phillip Ervin is tied for 2nd in the league in home runs (9).

May 25, 2015

Social Spotlight/Defensive Spotlight: It was impossible not to include outfielder Willie Argo in both categories this week. The photo, tweeted by the team, showed a play that looked physically crazy to even attempt. Even crazier was that the attempt was successful. Argo, a former 22nd round pick for the Tampa Bay Rays in 2012, was released in 2014, but the independent league Saints signed him and the 25-year-old is making the most of opportunity. Big league teams are always watching, and hopefully they got a look at that excellent grab.

Statistical Spotlight: The Charlotte Stone Crabs, High-A affiliate of the Tampa Bay Rays, have been impressive out of the gate this season. The team is led by manager Michael Johns, who has a rich history within the organization, and with several players on the team. They've shown strengths in every area, but team pitching has been the star. As reported by team beat writer Josh Vitale, the Stone Crabs 2.12 team ERA is 'the lowest of any team at any level of baseball, majors or minors.' Righty starter Jacob Faria's 1.55 ERA is the lowest on the team, and 2nd lowest in the Florida State League. Ryne Stanek is not far behind with a 1.78 ERA. Stanek's 0.95 WHIP is also good for 6th in the league. Playoffs bound? There's an excellent chance of that. But also keep an eye out for Florida State League All-Star Game announcements. Many Charlotte pitchers are more than earning their name on that roster.

May 18, 2015

Eric Jagielo - Jagielo is showing up with power and consistency, and last week was no exception. In six games to start May, the third baseman had 10 hits with 2 home runs. He also collected 3 RBI and drew 4 walks for the Trenton Thunder.

Jagielo is a big (literal and figurative) bright spot in the New York Yankees organization and making a successful jump to Double-A is a major test he's passing. The team's 2013 first round pick is also doing so early and fast. Whether his big power translates to the next level and more advanced pitching is the next test. Despite positive results, he's so young and rushing him would be a mistake.

Earlier this season he spoke exclusively with this blog about his focus, saying he was, "Especially working the breaking ball and curve ball." (Thank you to Luke Williamson for the suggestion. Follow him on Twitter @ltw0303)

The Visalia Rawhide have the best record in the California League, going 28-10 and maintaining a 7.5 game lead on the second place Modesto Nuts. They've won 8 of their last 10 and lead the league in several categories, including innings pitched (354.2), strikeouts (373), and have the lowest WHIP (1.12). Offensively, they're 2nd in hits (356), doubles (86), and RBI (180). The Diamondbacks Advanced-A affiliate is firing on all cylinders to kick off the summer.

May 15, 2015

Brandon Peterson, a Savage, Minnesota native, grew up going to Twins games with his family. In 2013, he was selected by his hometown team out of Wichita State, in the 13th round of the June MLB Draft. He spent most of 2014 with his current team, the Fort Myers Miracle of the Advanced-A Florida State League. He finished that season with 31 appearances under his belt, with a 1.80 ERA and 65 strikeouts, working mostly as a closer.

In 12 games this year, Peterson has been a solid right-handed option out of the bullpen (with his role shifting a bit) posting a 1.45 ERA, a 1.23 WHIP; he's allowed just 12 walks (the lowest of any Miracle reliever this season) with 25 strikeouts in 18.2 innings.

He spoke recently of his progress and reflected on past seasons.

Comfort Level This Season: I’d say. I get a little uncomfortable. I’m still trying to find my way. I’m pretty confident. I was successful last year in this league, so that gives me confidence.

Current Challenges: Being a reliever in general, at least two good pitches… throwing change my whole career. Working on it, espe. To left handed hitters. Just to get a different feel and have another weapon.

His Greatest Teachers in Organization: Eric Rasmussen, who's the pitching coordinator.Gary Lucas as well. He really cared for us individually. We’ve worked together a lot mechanically. Lucas was more helpful with the mental part.

On His Role: Last year I was more of a closer. Once I got promoted last year, you have to earn your stripes. Right now, I’m more of a set-up guy. I do love coming in with the game on the line.